São Lourenço do Barrocal
Alentejo, Portugal
Portugal, the oldest country in Europe with the same borders since 1139, and specifically, the Alentejo region, are home to the estate of São Lourenço do Barrocal. At its heart is the monte—an ancient small farming village that has been carefully reimagined as a luxury hotel, surrounded by ancient holm oaks, olive groves, and vineyards.
The rustic rooms and cottages are the epitome of understated luxury, and perfectly underpinned by the hotel’s farm-to-table restaurant, pool, and endless outdoor activities to make any nature-loving traveler feel very at home.
The story
The São Lourenço estate has been with the owning family for over 200 years, and now sits in the hands of 8th generation owner, José António Uva. It took 14 years to fully restore and evolve the property into the inimitable experience it is now.
Your stay
The two-bedroom cottages boast two separate floors which makes for a private and spacious stay, even amongst friends or family.
How to spend your time
Explore the vast property on horseback or bike, stopping for a picnic and wine tasting in the hotel’s vineyards. Afterwards, a relaxing treatment at the Susanne Kauffman spa will soothe your muscles and ease your mind. Resist the urge to melt into bed though—you’ll want to stay up to star gaze, where the view is like no other.
Fall in love with
The owning family have invested immense amounts of energy, time, and care into the hotel—something that’s noticeable with every interaction.
Expect the unexpected
All over the estate you’ll find towering stone liths or menhirs, some 7,000 years old. The hotel also offers access to the largest artificial lake in Europe, Alqueva.
The best time to visit
The estate blooms with wild flowers in spring, and is the perfect time for outdoor activities like afternoon bike rides around the property; experience the harvest in fall, sipping the special estate organic wines; winter is cozy and romantic – spend your time by the fire reading and eating the hearty portuguese fare.
More to experience with Querido
A stay at Sublime Comporta in Comporta or Immerso in Ericeira.
How to get there
Lisbon (LIS) airport is approximately 120 minutes away.